Consultation takes a canine twist on new trains

Published: 9 October 2017

Victorian guide dogs are among the first to experience a full scale physical model of Melbourne's next-generation High Capacity Metro Trains.

Guide Dogs Victoria is among 14 accessibility groups who are currently experiencing and evaluating a 39-metre model train over the next month, as part of Evolution Rail's year-long consultation program.

They are evaluating features including doors, seats, lighting, electronic signage, straps, handrails and more.

These groups have provided input into the new train's design over the past year, and will now be on board to evaluate key operational, passenger and accessibility features before the design is finalised and major production commences at the start of next year.

Pam Haigh and her guide dog Bryl travelled from Warragul to participate in a recent evaluation session. 'Opportunities like today are great,' Pam said.

'It's so important that we can be involved, find out more about the design and see how the dog goes.'

Melbourne's 65 High Capacity Metro Trains will be assembled in Victoria, resulting in more than 1,100 jobs, including throughout the local supply chain.

The new bigger, better trains will enter service from mid-2019 on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines and eventually run through the Metro Tunnel to Sunbury.

The trains will be almost 160 metres long and able to carry 20 per cent more passengers than existing trains.

So they are going to have a look at the mock-up of the train and provide some very valuable input in terms of ensuring that it meets the requirements that they have in terms of room for their guide dogs, rails to lead them to the exit of the trains.